Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT)

Does sexual violence happen to LGBT people?

Sexual violence is what happens when someone does not consent to a sexual act. There are many different kinds of sexual violence from flashing and voyeurism to sexual assault and rape. It can happen to anyone – women, men, girls and boys. No one ever deserves or asks for it to happen. What is sexual violence?

Sexual violence happens to and is committed by people of all sexual orientations.

What is same-sex sexual assault?

This may include (but is not limited to) vaginal and/or anal penetration, oral sex, touching, or any additional sexual activity without consent.

This may occur on a date, between friends, partners or strangers.

People of every age, race or religious background, and sexual orientation can experience sexual violence. No matter where you were, what you were doing, what you were wearing, what you were saying, if you were drunk or under the influence of drugs, you did not deserve this. The responsibility always lies with the attacker, not you.

Are LGBT people more likely than heterosexuals to be sexually assaulted by a stranger?

Regrettably, the answer is yes. Due to homophobia, LGBT individuals are at a greater risk of experiencing sexual violence by strangers. Perpetrators frequently use sexual violence against LGBT individuals to punish and humiliate them.

Helpline service for LGBTI survivors of sexual violence

Rape Crisis Scotland offer a specialist support service on the national helpline for LGBTI survivors of sexual violence, and their friends and families. This will complement existing services and offer LGBTI survivors an additional opportunity to seek support responsive to their experiences from specially trained support workers.

LGBTI survivors can call the Rape Crisis Scotland helpline at any time, but highlighting particular hours in this way is intended to offer an additional opportunity for survivors to seek support in the confident knowledge that Rape Crisis Scotland is able to respond to their needs, and understands that gender identity and sexual orientation can be a major factor in the way survivors experience the impact of abuse.

LGBTI specific helpline times operate on Mondays and Thursdays between 7pm and midnight. The number to call is 08088 01 03 02.